Employment Resources and Tips for Former Inmates

Just released and need to know where to start? Consider these options:

Local Temporary Employment Agencies are a good resource because they may consider placing you in "low" risk positions. 

It is important to stress your skills and be overly prepared to "prove" what you can do in the position you are applying for.

Telemarketing Companies also require little risk for their employees and usually welcome former inmates who have a desire to work.

Restaurants will easily be a resource if you are willing to work hard in janitorial or kitchen work.  

The Unemployment Office should be your first stop for employment.  You can be very candid with them regarding your past and they often have resources for former inmates.  For the state of Indiana, visit the following website for employment information:  www.in.gov/dwd/job_seekers/workone_centers.html.

Indiana  Division of Family and Children along with other similar state welfare offices and agencies usually have housing, meal and employment resources for low income individuals.

The Salvation Army is another good and well-respected entity that can point former inmates in the right direction for resources.  The organization is very supportive for those in an out of prison.

Download the Employment Information Handbook which was designed by the Federal Bureau of Prisons.  This is an 82-page manual that gives helpful and realistic resources to those released from prison.  This is downloadable in PDF format.  (Go to www.adobe.com to get your free acrobat reader).

Employment Information Handbook